Last year's discussion forum on "Bored with the Rings" went so well,we're including two other forums this year:

*The future market for summer blockbusters and studio films: Is theblockbuster dead?George Lucas was quoted in 2006 saying "I predict that by 2025 theaverage movie will cost only $15 million." What do cinephiles make of Lucas'prognostication?

*Are the Oscars relevant anymore?Over the last two years, the nominated best picture films grossed lessthan $100 million on an average, falling even from 2005 to 2006 to $48million. During the same period, 13 films, none nominated for best picture,haveentered the all-time U.S. Box office top 50, grossing a minimum of $234million. Does this disparity reflect a lack of relevancy in the Oscars?Can a "Best Picture" really make less than $60 million domestic?

Please send inquiries regarding this area to Lynnea Chapman King orAndrew Tash at the email or physical address below. Extended submissiondeadline is Dec. 1, and registration deadline is December 31, 2006.

Submissions should include a current curriculum vitae, a workingbibliography for your paper, and a 200- 250 word abstract.